YMCA & Test Kitchen Education Foundation

Welcome to the YMCA Test Kitchen

The Test Kitchen Education Foundation (TKEF) and YMCA are excited to announce the merger of their programs. All Test Kitchen programs will remain intact as we continue to provide our community with the same incredible opportunities as always.

Register for ACT Prep & Summer Programs

Our Programs

From culinary arts to STEM, music to golf, the Test Kitchen offers enriching experiences for every student.

ACT Preparation

The YMCA Test Kitchen recruits passionate area educators to craft ACT prep courses spanning five to eight weeks. Students receive prep materials and a mobile app to practice from anywhere. Every class begins with a great meal prepared by local chefs.

Culinary Arts

When children help prepare a meal, they feel they are making an important contribution. Cooking experiences build knowledge and skills in science, math, reading, and communication while filling students with pride and self-confidence.

For the Community

Students participate in community dinners prepared and served at St. Johns United Church of Christ, gaining hands-on experience cooking and serving meals for community members in need.

Golf

Golf helps youth grow mentally and physically, teaching life skills and the value of patience and self-improvement. Dedicated volunteers passionate about area youth and the game come together to provide golf lessons to students who lack the opportunity.

Music

An innovative music program featuring fun music theory games, culinary activities, and dedicated practice times. Friday Night Live Jam lets students perform with community music enthusiasts at the Test Kitchen STEM Lounge while enjoying great food.

School Collaborations

The YMCA Test Kitchen works with area schools, setting aside dedicated days for groups of students to visit the Test Kitchen and STEM Lounge for life-learning lessons and hands-on cooking instruction.

STEM

Every Test Kitchen child has the opportunity to thrive in a modern STEM environment and becomes prepared to actively participate regardless of their background.

Summer Programs

Cooking, History, Robotics, and Music camps keep youth engaged during summer months. The Test Kitchen's summer programs draw students from all over Iowa, with many participants returning each summer.

The Fort Madison YMCA Test Kitchen is proud to collaborate with the Test Kitchen Education Foundation to offer these great programs to our community members and beyond.

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